Antimicrobial is a generic, catch-all term for any compound or agent that inhibits the growth of, or kills microorganisms. More specific classes of antimicrobials include:
- Antibiotics - also known as antibacterials, kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
- Antimycotics - also known as antifungals, kill or inhibit the growth of fungi.
- Antiparasitics - kill or inhibit the growth of parasites.
- Antivirals - destroy or inhibit development of viruses.
- Chemotherapeutics - agents used to target cancer cells.